Flu Prevention & Treatment (Swine or Otherwise)

With the rapid spread of swine flu in news, this is a good time to remember simple and effective ways to prevent infection:

Wash hands routinely with soap and warm water.

Wipe down phones, keyboards, and shared office equipment with anti-viral/anti-bacterial cleaner.

Boost your immune system with proper rest, nutrition and Chinese herbs.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

Swine flu symptoms are those of the influenza virus. Most people who become infected will not have any long term complications. Those who are immune compromised, elderly or pregnant may be at higher risk of complications or serious respiratory illness.

The most common swine flu symptoms include: Cough, Congestion, Body Aches, Headaches, Joint Pains, Fevers (high or low), Sore Throat, and Fatigue. Viral transmission can occur with casual contact or airborne transmission, like when one sneezes or coughs. Eating pork products will not cause one to develop the swine flu.

Cold and Flu and Traditional Chinese Medicine

Herbal formulas can treat influenza. Some treat flu and colds manifested as body aches, chills, dull headache, neck stiffness, and low fever. Some herbs treat infections that manifest as sore throat, high fever (above 101), coughing, and itching red eyes. Formulas are prescribed based on reported symptoms and tongue and pulse diagnosis. They improve the overall adaptability of the body's regulatory mechanisms and reduce the severity and duration of the infection.

Pharmacological evaluation has shown some root and fungi based formulas contain polysaccharides that exert an activating, corrective influence upon both the cellular (macrophages and T-cells) and humoral (antibodies) aspects of the immune system.

Immunity refers to the harmonic interaction of the body's processes, substances, and structural components to create strength, stamina, and adaptability. To bolster immunity is ultimately to strengthen your body as a whole.

Acupuncture and Chinese herbs restore and maintain optimal health and prevent contraction of infections.